Perceptions of physical activity among elderly residents and professionals in assisted living facilities

Abstract

BackgroundPhysical activity is often described as being important for people of all ages, but what different people mean when they talk about physical activity is unclear.MethodA phenomenographic method was used to analyze how 13 older people and 17 professionals answer the question, “If I say physical activity, what does the concept mean to you?” as part of semi-structured interviews conducted in four assisted living facilities in two different municipalities.ResultsWe identified a number of different perceptions of physical activity, with the older people and professionals having different responses. Elderly and professionals alike, define physical activity as a requirement for life and as an opportunity to maintain the body although they define the concepts in different ways. Elderly define the concept as a way to create meaning and the professionals have the attitude that the concept means everyday activities.ConclusionThe concept of physical activity may be defined in many different ways. This study has shown that elderly and professionals do not define physical activity in the same way. Therefore, professionals need to be aware of these differences when talking with elderly about individual needs in everyday life.

How do residents of aged care homes perceive physical activity and functional independence? A qualitative study

“…Ekerdt () suggested that older people were compelled to keep busy and occupied as a way of justifying their leisure. Mahrs Träff, Cedersund, and Nord () found that older resident in assisted living facilities considered physical activity as a way to create meaning and to maintain or enhance bodily function. Similarly, despite a gradual decline in intensity, older people living in the community tended to continue engaging in meaningful physical activities such as walking and gardening if they had support to adjust to limitations associated with ageing (Janssen & Stube, ).…”

Fysisk aktivitet för äldre på särskilda boenden

“…Äldre personer har beskrivit fysisk aktivitet som gymnastik och promenader (Mahrs Träff, Cedersund & Nord, 2017). Personal har beskrivit att fysisk aktivitet för personer som bor på särskilt boende är att genomföra vardagsaktiviteter t.ex.…”

“…Personal har beskrivit att fysisk aktivitet för personer som bor på särskilt boende är att genomföra vardagsaktiviteter t.ex. att äta och att klä på sig själv (Mahrs Träff et al, 2017).…”